The use of aromatic herbs, berries and seeds stretches back deep into time, and around them has accumulated much legend and mystery and a fund of practical lore.

          Here Rosemary Hemphill, drawing on her own wide knowledge, reveals fascinating anecdotes about herbs and spices – for instance, did you know that Prometheus brought fire down from heaven concealed in a hollow fennel stalk, and that Horace deplored the eating of garlic?

          Arranging the book in four parts, one for each season, she devotes a section to each plant giving instructions for its planting, cultivation and drying. Included within the sections are a variety of recipes catering for all tastes – vegetarians, the diet-conscious, natural-food enthusiasts, those who "can eat anything" – plus a fascinating collection of simple herbal remedies and beauty aids as well as useful ideas for gifts, ranging from pomanders to scented sachets.